When I was 22 years old I met the current King of Denmark, at the time he was Prince Frederik. He went to university in Aarhus, where I live, and occasionally came to the Casablanca Cafe, a place where many of us hung out. Despite him being always closely followed by his bodyguards, we occasionally talked and shared opinions about different things. Frederik has always spoken very positively about his stay in Aarhus, which we are proud of, and makes us feel somewhat connected to him and somewhat important. I have followed him ever since, from the side-lines of course! and loved him and his family ever since, just like almost all Danes do.
On 20 May 2024, I, along with three other people with dementia, were invited to take part in the “Royal run”, a popular run that takes place, every spring, in different places in Denmark. In Aarhus alone, 22,000 people participated in the run. It was a very sunny day and a fantastic experience, a huge party with different races for people of all ages. I was invited as a person with dementia because I work with one of the councillors in Aarhus. When I had run my one mile, had pictures taken, and was on my way home, King Frederik and I saw each other, nodded to each other, looked each other in the eye and smiled. It only lasted a short moment, but a moment that was so fine that I hope I will never forget it. I live for such experiences, and the many other good things I experience. I collect them and I survive difficult times by remembering wonderful experiences.
Pictured: King Frederik X of Denmark at the Royal Run in Aarhus
